Some studies have found that as many as 27 percent of those with autism also have symptoms of bipolar disorder.
For some individuals with ASD, problems with mood go beyond frequent irritability or tantrums. They may suffer from an actual mood disorder in addition to their ASD. Bipolar disorder has been reported, although anxiety and depression appear to be much more prevalent.
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are characterized by deficits in social reciprocity and communication, and by restricted, repetitive behaviors (APA, 2013). Additionally, children with ASD often display high levels of irritability (Mandy, Roughan, & Skuse, 2014; Simonoff et al., 2012).
The Link Between Bipolar Disorder and Autism
Some of the overlapping symptoms of bipolar disorder and autism are disturbed sleep, hyperactivity, irritability and impulsivity. These similarities can make it difficult to tell the difference between autism and bipolar disorder.
Because of its similarities, Aspergers and Pediatric Bipolar Disorder are very similar and can cause a misdiagnosis. The symptoms that are similar are: odd habits, compulsive behavior and spells of rage. Both disorders tend to lack the social development skills as well as the educational, behavioral and anger issues.
Bipolar disorder can be confused with other conditions, such as depression, schizophrenia, BPD, anxiety, and ADHD. Detecting and diagnosing bipolar disorder may take some time.
One telltale sign of Asperger's syndrome is having difficulty in social situations. Common symptoms of Asperger's that may impact social interaction or communication include: Problems making or maintaining friendships. Isolation or minimal interaction in social situations.
Lithium is another option for children and adolescents with ASD who present with symptoms of a mood disorder, such as elevated moods/euphoria, mania, and paranoia, whether accompanied or not by irritability.
Mental disorders which may be commonly confused with bipolar disorder include Borderline Personality Disorder , Schizoaffective Disorder, Unipolar Depression, and Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder.
Autism and Borderline Personality can both co-occur, or they can be misdiagnosed as one another. To the untrained eye, undiagnosed autism can easily look like BPD.
Some autistic people can experience difficulties making themselves understood, understanding what's being said to them, and understanding facial expressions and body language. This can cause considerable frustration and anxiety which may result in anger or distressed behaviour.
High-functioning autism and anger may look like the following: Having a meltdown with crying and shouting. Trying to escape the situation, which may potentially put the child in danger. Exhibit aggressive behaviors towards others such as biting, smashing, hitting, kicking, or scratching.
People with high functioning autism often are aware of their challenges and social deficiencies, sometimes causing repetitive thoughts about this, leading to anger and possible aggression. Knowing how to deal with the anger and help your child find the tools to manage this will bring a sense of harmony and relief.
Having distinct periods of irritable or overactive behavior and sleeplessness, and other periods of depression, may suggest bipolar disorder. But if the irritable behavior and sleep problems, for example, are “chronic and persistent,” they may be related to autism, according to some researchers.
In children and teenagers with high-functioning autism, this can present as a limited social circle, difficulty completing group work, or problems sharing toys and materials. Many people with ASD have sensory difficulties. Certain tastes, noises, smells, or feelings can be intolerable.
Anxiety disorders, alcohol-substance use disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder and attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder are the most common comorbid psychiatric conditions in bipolar disorders.
Many people with bipolar disorder also have other mental disorders or conditions such as anxiety disorders, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), misuse of drugs or alcohol, or eating disorders.
A portion of the bipolar population becomes “controlling.” This at first can show up as a talkative and outgoing, but soon suggestions and discussions become manipulative. Examples of controlling statements include: “Why would you do that?” “Does that really make sense?”
Risperidone (Risperdal®)
Risperidone is an antipsychotic and mood stabilizer medication and is also used for treatment of irritability of autism and tic disorders.
This may take the form of severe tantrums, lashing out, etc. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved two medicines for the treatment of autism-related irritability. They are risperidone (Risperdal) and aripiprazole (Abilify). They belong to a class of drugs known as atypical antipsychotics.
A meltdown for a teen with high-functioning autism and anger can last just a few minutes to several hours. Remember that these meltdowns are not an attempt to manipulate you to get something they want. Angry outbursts are typically a cry for help when they are overwhelmed and unable to stop themselves.
Individuals with ASDs commonly have a low frustration tolerance and significant irritability. They may report that they alternate from calm to extreme anger very quickly. There have been several studies that suggest individuals with ASDs have difficulty understanding and interpreting their own emotions.
A broader top face, a shorter middle face, wider eyes, a wider mouth, and a philtrum are some of the common facial features seen in children with ASD [16,17].